Manchester United begin the defence of their Barclays Premier League crown at home to newly-promoted Birmingham City.

Alex McLeish's men clinched their return to the top-flight with a victory at Reading on the final day of last season. They wound up their pre-season preparations with a 0-0 draw at home to Sporting Gijon.

United begin the new campaign without Cristiano Ronaldo following his £80m move to Real Madrid but they do have Michael Owen in their ranks after his surprise switch from Newcastle United.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men will be aiming to bounce back from their Community Shield disappointment on penalties against Chelsea.